Tivan sighed, exhaling the smoke from his lungs. "When I collected the Soul gem, Korvac wanted me dead. My daughter was so in love with him that she betrayed me to be with him."
I nodded sadly. "That must have been terrible for you."
The Collector eyed me dolefully from across the table. "It was, Zenith. It is still hard for me to speak about. I still love my daughter."
"I'm so sorry, sir."
Tivan smiled at me. "Please call me Taneleer, or I prefer just Tivan. You saved my life. The formalities are no longer necessary."
"Of course, Tivan." I spoke, returning his smile.
"Tell me about yourself, Zenith." Tivan urged me, pressing his lips to the cigar again and taking a breath.
"Here you are, master." Thea had returned with his tequila, and poured us two wine glasses.
"There's not much to tell." I replied smoothly. "I am a student from San Francisco studying to be a doctor."
Tivan sighed deeply. "Why were you there tonight, Zenith? You are a long way from home. Another galaxy to be precise. Why would you be dancing at a nightclub in Knowhere?"
"I'm here on vacation. Paid leave." I said nervously.
He gazed at me for several moments. "Truthfully?"
"Really?" I shot back defensively. "Why would I lie about that, Tivan?"
Taneleer took a deep breath. "I meant no offense, my beauty. It's very difficult to gain my trust. I want to trust you very much, Zenith. But many betrayals and disappointments have made me far more aware of the human process of things."
I stood up, clearly vexed by his words.
Tivan sighed loudly. "You are welcome to stay here. Thea could make you a room."
"Here? With you?" I asked brazenly. "No thank you. You've been far too courteous to me for saving your life."
"Zenith." Tivan stressed my name. He stood up as well. "Be reasonable. I only meant that I don't trust anyone from previous experiences."
"You've made it quite obvious how much you appreciate my kindness." I retorted icily.
He sighed, coming toward me. "I am extremely grateful. I have yet to reward you. You have been very generous to me. For this I shall give you 1 billion units."